Imagine directing a film where natural disasters take centre stage. If you wanted the film to be a blockbuster, which disaster would you cast in the leading role?

Although heat waves may not be the most dramatic or spectacular natural disasters, they have the highest fatality rate. In the summer of 2003, over 70,000 people lost their lives in Europe due to extreme heat (1, 2). The number of individuals exposed to heat waves continues to rise each year, with an increase of 125 million people between 2000 and 2016. Moreover, with an ageing population, the vulnerability to heat stress is also growing (2).

Despite these alarming statistics, there is a silver lining. By adequately preparing for heat waves and implementing appropriate measures during them, we can protect ourselves and others.

The Ljubljanski ledenik (Ljubljana Glacier) project is an initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the significance, impact, and protection against heat waves. Discover more valuable content on posters strategically placed throughout the city centre and by visiting the following link. The project is co-funded by the Municipality of Ljubljana.

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